Our Inspectorate’s prosecutions represent just a fraction of their positive impact on NSW communities. Inspectors frequently resolve a range of animal welfare concerns through a proactive, preventative approach, involving education, practical support, and referrals to our programs. In doing so, our Inspectorate not only responds to welfare emergencies but also promotes long-term change by empowering animal-loving communities to support and care for their pets.
From conducting large-scale rescues to helping communities affected by floods, our Inspectors will be there to lend a hand to those in need. Our collaborations with farmers, pet owners, welfare groups, and various government agencies contribute to keeping our communities and our animals healthy and safe.
RSPCA NSW has a dedicated Breeders Compliance Unit (BCU) committed to ensuring the welfare of breeding animals across the state. When not responding to complaints pertaining to unethical breeding practices, our team proactively inspects known breeding establishments to ensure they are complying with the Breeding Code for Cats and Dogs. Through these inspections, we provide guidance to breeders on meeting best-practice standards while identifying and addressing any welfare concerns.
RSPCA NSW Inspectors play a vital role in protecting animals by enforcing the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979, as well as regulations. Beyond investigations and enforcement, our teams contribute their expertise by sitting on advisory committees and collaborating with agencies such as the NSW Department of Primary Industries, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, NSW Police, and local councils. Through these partnerships, we help shape policies, provide support in complex cases, and strengthen protections for animals across the state
RSPCA NSW rehomes a range of different animals, from dogs, cats, and birds to horses, rabbits, and sheep! We believe that all creatures, great and small, can bring joy to our families and homes. Begin your adoption journey today and make an adorable lifelong friend!
By providing temporary homes for our animals, we can ensure they get the care they need until they are ready to be adopted. Join our network of foster carers for an incredibly rewarding experience; with your help, we can change the lives of some of the state’s most vulnerable animals.
We rely on our generous supporters to continue assisting the thousands of animals turning to RSPCA NSW for help. No matter how small your contribution, every gift makes a lifesaving difference for animals in need.
By raising funds and lending a hand to communities and their pets, our volunteers play a pivotal role in our work throughout NSW. If you have a genuine concern for animals and enjoy meeting like-minded people, consider becoming an RSPCA NSW volunteer today!
The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (1979) is the legislation that governs animal welfare in NSW. Its objectives are:
If you witness any animal cruelty or suspect an emergency involving an animal, please contact RSPCA NSW straight away. The animal emergency hotline number is 1300 CRUELTY (1300 278 3589).
You can also submit an online animal cruelty report using the dedicated form on our cruelty webpage here.
RSPCA NSW Inspectors provide targeted advice and support by delivering education to individual pet owners, including those who are the subject of animal cruelty complaints. Where possible, our Inspectors work with devoted animal guardians to improve the health and wellbeing of the animals in their care. RSPCA NSW Inspectors also sit on advisory committees and rescue animals with other agencies such as the NSW Department of Primary Industries, the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, NSW Police, local councils, and more.
The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 does authorise RSPCA NSW Inspectors to enter private land to examine animals if they have reasonable grounds to suspect an offence is, has, or is going to be committed with respect to an animal.
Regarding a dwelling, an Inspector can enter with the consent of the occupier of the dwelling, the authority of a search warrant, or if the Inspector has reasonable grounds to believe that an animal has suffered significant physical injury, is in imminent danger of suffering significant physical injury, or has a life-threatening condition that requires immediate veterinary treatment.
Having more knowledge about an act of alleged animal cruelty enables our Inspectors to respond in the most appropriate manner. This is why, when making a report, we require your name, contact details, and any additional information when reporting animal cruelty to RSPCA NSW.
We promise to uphold the highest ethical standards. Your personal information has never been, and never will be sold or traded to other charities. This is our promise to you.
We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we live and work. We recognise and respect the enduring relationship they have with their lands and waterways, and particularly acknowledge the vital role animals have played in Indigenous life, stories and culture for tens of thousands of years.
The RSPCA is an independent, community-based charity providing animal care and protection services across the country.
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The RSPCA is an independent, community-based charity providing animal care and protection services across the country.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
